Earth Science: Understanding Environmental Systemsis intended for introductory courses in Earth Science and Earth Systems Science, which place emphasis on the systems approach to earth science with special attention to the impact these systems have on the environment. It is appropriate for non-science majors with no previous college science or mathematics courses.The primary goals of this book are to provide the background the general student needs to understand the way Earth works, how knowledge of Earth relates to the environmental issues confronting our society, and how scientists go about examining these issues.